Tom Jones
By Tracey Petherick,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Oscar-winning adventure comedy has dated sexist humor.
A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this movie.
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Tom Jones
Community Reviews
There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
TOM JONES follows the fortunes of the illegitimate Tom Jones (Albert Finney). Raised by a benevolent squire, Tom lives a privileged life in the countryside and grows up to be charming, witty, and popular. He is also an incorrigible playboy. As his story takes him from riches to rags -- and back again -- he enjoys lusty relations with women of all backgrounds and classes. But despite these dalliances, his heart remains forever with his childhood friend Sophie (Susannah York).
Is It Any Good?
Despite winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, this 1963 comedy-of-errors feels old-fashioned and at times thoroughly inappropriate. Finney is fantastic as the cocky but ultimately honorable Tom, while York's performance as the charming but wise Sophie brings much-needed refinement to the whole affair. Considering its age, much of Tom Jones is cinematically brilliant, beautifully shot with some impressive set pieces and clever camera angles. There is plenty of humor throughout, with tongue-in-cheek remarks from the narrator, and endless farcical scenarios.
The director, Tony Richardson, uses techniques like silent movie-style stills and sped-up footage set to jolly organ music. When the actors "break the fourth wall," looking directly at the camera for comic effect, it feels innovative and enjoyably intimate. Unfortunately, despite the quality of the film-making and acting, the genuine laughs and some actual moments of tenderness, the overriding tone of Tom Jones feels outdated. What was once considered saucy slapstick is now bawdy and disrespectful. Objectifying women just isn't that funny anymore.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the humor in Tom Jones. Does it feel acceptable nowadays? How is it different to the comedy we see in modern movies?
How are women portrayed and treated in the movie? Discuss gender equality. What changes have taken place in women's rights since the 18th century?
How has the traditional family unit changed over the years? Children whose parents are not married are no longer "illegitimate." How else have families become more diverse?
Consider the arguments for and against fox or deer hunting with dogs. Why was it banned in the U.K., and how is it still happening?
Movie Details
- In theaters: June 27, 1963
- On DVD or streaming: February 3, 2003
- Cast: Albert Finney , Susannah York , George Devine
- Director: Tony Richardson
- Studio: United Artists
- Genre: Action/Adventure
- Topics: Adventures , Book Characters , History
- Run time: 129 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Awards: Academy Award , BAFTA
- Last updated: October 8, 2022
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
Where to Watch
Our Editors Recommend
Excellent Adventure Movies for Family Fun
Best Classic Comedy Films
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate